Makhachev Set for Next Big Challenge in the Octagon: Who Will Step Up?
Islam Makhachev, the rising star in the lightweight division, has been making waves in the UFC with his dominant performances. With a record of 20-1, including seven straight wins, Makhachev is now undoubtedly a force to be reckoned with. However, as he continues to climb up the rankings, the question remains, who will be brave enough to step up and challenge him next?
Makhachev, a protege of the legendary Khabib Nurmagomedov, has been often compared to his mentor. Possessing a similar grappling-heavy style, Makhachev has shown remarkable skills on the ground, easily overpowering his opponents and controlling them with his impressive wrestling and submission game. His recent victory against Drew Dober showcased his ability to finish the fight with a third-round anaconda choke, demonstrating his versatility in submissions.
But as Makhachev continues to rack up wins, it becomes increasingly difficult to find opponents who are willing to take the risk of facing him. The lightweight division itself is stacked with top-tier talent, but few are lining up to face the dangerous Russian fighter. It’s understandable given his dominant performances, but it leaves Makhachev in a challenging position.
One name that has been thrown around as a potential opponent for Makhachev is Tony Ferguson. Ferguson, a former interim lightweight champion, has had a rough couple of fights lately, suffering back-to-back losses against Justin Gaethje and Charles Oliveira. However, his resilience, creativity, and unorthodox style make him an exciting matchup for Makhachev. Both fighters are known for their exceptional grappling skills, and a clash between the two would undoubtedly be a fan-favorite.
Another potential challenger for Makhachev could be Rafael dos Anjos. Dos Anjos is a former lightweight champion and has consistently proven himself to be a tough opponent for anyone in the division. With his experience and well-rounded skill set, dos Anjos could provide a stern test for Makhachev’s rising star. A win against dos Anjos would undoubtedly solidify Makhachev’s position as a top contender in the division.
However, the lightweight division is filled with other intriguing matchups that could pose challenges for Makhachev. Fighters like Conor McGregor, Michael Chandler, and Justin Gaethje could all be potential opponents in the future. Each brings their own unique skills and poses different threats, making for exciting possibilities in the octagon.
While the lightweight division may be buzzing with potential challengers, it remains to be seen who will step up and face Makhachev next. Whether it’s an established contender or an up-and-coming fighter looking to make a name for themselves, the task of dethroning Makhachev will certainly be a formidable one. But until someone is brave enough to take on the challenge, Makhachev will continue to cement himself as a force to be reckoned with in the UFC’s lightweight division.